Despite challenging weather conditions, Health Stores Ireland successfully hosted its annual “Putting Our Best Foot Forward” conference and awards ceremony at Treacy’s Oakwood Hotel, Shannon, bringing together over 60 retailers and 70 trade exhibitors, including 15 emerging brands.
The event, a cornerstone of the industry calendar, fostered meaningful discussions, networking opportunities, and insights into current market trends. A highlight was the engaging panel discussion featuring Cheryl Thallon (Viridian), Dave Christie (Take on Goliath), and Joe Gavin (Xcelerate), skilfully moderated by Finn Murray (Hopsack) and Hannah Dare (Organico).
The 2025 Health Food Business Health Store Heroes Awards recognised outstanding achievements across multiple categories:
Leader of the Pack: Ciaron Mc Loughlin, The Wellness Shop, Sligo
Social Stars: Matt & Nuala Ronan, Evolv Health & Wellbeing Store, Enniscorthy
Merchandising Maestro: Sara Pezzati, Evergreen Healthfoods, Knocknacarra
Web Wizard: Edel Lane Kelly, Horans Healthstores
Rising Star: Mark Tierney, The Olive Branch Health Food Emporium & Twig Refill Shop, Clonakilty
New Better Retailing Annual Awards were presented in various categories:
- Merchandising & Window Display: Kim Douglas, Natures Cures Skerries
- Community Engagement: Clair Whitty, Natural Health Store
- Training: Kierran and Aideen Hurley Evergreen
- Environmental Initiatives: Hannah Dare, Organico
- Digital Marketing & Social Media: Finn Murray, The Hopsack
- Local Producer Champion: Rosemarie Bennis, Sonas Health Foods
Special recognition awards were presented to Sally Smith of Open Sesame for Service to Retail and Cheryl Thallon of Viridian Nutrition for Service to Industry, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to the health food sector.
